Using the Julia framework to teach quantum entanglement

TL;DR

This paper explores using the Julia-based Yao.jl framework to teach quantum entanglement concepts to computer science students, emphasizing practical coding and experiments aligned with quantum information processing education.

Contribution

It introduces a novel pedagogical approach employing Yao.jl for teaching entanglement, integrating circuit diagrams and code to enhance understanding for CS students.

Findings

Effective visualization of entanglement concepts through circuits and code.

Successful demonstration of Bell and GHZ states in educational settings.

Enhanced student comprehension of quantum entanglement principles.

Abstract

Entanglement, a phenomenon that has puzzled scientists since its discovery, has been extensively studied by many researchers through both theoretical and experimental aspect of both quantum information processing (QIP) and quantum mechanics (QM). But how can entanglement be most effectively taught to computer science students compared to applied physics students?. in this educational pursuit, we propose using Yao.jl, a quantum computing framework written in Julia for teaching entanglement to graduate computer science students attending a quantum computing class at Johns Hopkins University. David Mermin's just enough QM for them to understand and develop algorithms in quantum computation [Mer98, Mer03] idea aligns with the purpose of this work. Additionally, the authors of the study Improving students understanding of QM via the Stern-Gerlach experiment (SGE) argue that this experiment should be a key part of any QM education. Here, we explore the concept of entanglement and it's quantification in various quantum information processing experiments, including one inequality-free form of Bell's theorem: (1) Superposition via the Hadamard, (2) Bell-state generation and (3) GHZ state generation. The utilisation of circuit diagrams and code fragmentsis a central theme in this work's philosophy.